Andover Audio has an established reputation for providing music listeners with affordable vinyl playback options that include SpinDeck, SpinBase, and Turntable Music Systems.
Building on its SpinBase and SpinBase MAX, Andover has announced the SpinBase 2 turntable speaker system.
Carrying over the design of the original SpinBase, the SpinBase 2 dials it up with a heathered fabric wrap and Andover’s iconic main control knob. The compact design blends convenience with high-quality sound and ease of setup and use, improving on this turntable-specific speaker concept and making it easier than ever for music lovers to enjoy listening to their records.
To optimize turntable performance, Andover continues to incorporate its IsoGroove Technology. This allows users to stack a turntable directly on top of the SpinBase 2 for a compact, high-performance, feedback-free listening experience.
From Bob Hazelwood, Andover’s Director of Engineering and Product Development: “At the heart of the SpinBase design is our patented IsoGroove technology, originally created for our flagship Andover-One all-in-one record player,…This groundbreaking technology eliminates feedback, allowing our SpinBase speakers to be stacked directly under the turntable without compromising sound quality. We’re committed to delivering superior, distortion-free audio for vinyl enthusiasts, all wrapped in a sleek, modern design. Over the past four years, we’ve received incredible feedback from our customers, and we’ve taken it to heart. This second generation of the SpinBase design builds on the successful foundation of the first, with significant enhancements of sound quality and visual appeal.”
Expanded Connectivity
In addition to vinyl record playback, the SpinBase 2 takes a cue from the previously released SpinBase MAX by adding the ability to send and receive Bluetooth signals. This means that users can listen to their records on compatible Bluetooth speakers as well as being able to listen to music from wireless bluetooth sources (such as smartphones) on the SpinBase system.
In addition, the SpinBase 2 includes Line, Digital Optical, and USB for flash drives. This expanded connectivity allows users to easily integrate various devices, making it easier than ever to enjoy music.
Enhanced User Experience
A new IR remote control makes it easier to adjust the bass and treble settings and other features. A new four-character LED display behind the grille provides easily viewed confirmation of commands. In addition, it illuminates only during adjustments, maintaining a clean appearance at all other times. The headphone jack has been moved to the side panel for easier access.
Sound Quality
The SpinBase 2 uses Andover’s Dual Direct Drive (Bi-amp) amplification design. This means that each woofer and tweeter are directly powered by its own dedicated amplifier. Andover feels that this provides richer, clearer sound than the passive crossovers in the original SpinBase.
Maintaining the design of the original model, the SpinBase 2 has a 270° driver array that produces a wide soundstage from a single vented enclosure. Two 1.75″ × 4″ oval woofers paired with 3/4 ″ silk-dome tweeters deliver 2 x 20W woofer power and 2 x 15W tweeter power across a frequency range of 65Hz–20kHz.
Also new, the SpinBase includes a selectable high-pass filter that increases the output SPL when used with a subwoofer.
The SpinBase 2 includes premium cloth grilles for a luxurious look, and the option of white or black finishes, all to complement Andover Audio’s entire Spin Collection: the SpinSub subwoofer, the SpinDeck 2 Turntable, and the SpinStand, which conveniently holds up 150 LPs.
Andover Audio now uses a built-in AC power supply that streamlines setup and eliminates the need for an external “wall-wart” transformer.
Integration and Expansion Options
For customers looking to expand their audio systems, the SpinBase 2 includes line-level audio outputs for additional powered speakers or a subwoofer, along with wireless transmission capabilities for Bluetooth-equipped headphones and/or speakers.
Pairing the SpinBase with an Andover SpinDeck 2 turntable creates a straightforward playback system that is easy to set up and use; users can also add Andover’s optional Songbird-series Wi-Fi Streaming adapter, which provides access to high-resolution, music streaming services and internet radio.
Comparison
| SpinBase 2 | SpinBase Max | SpinBase | |
| Price | $349 | $499 | $299 |
| Amplifier Type | Class D | Class D | Class D |
| Total Power Output | 70W | 60W | 36W |
| Woofer | 1.75″ × 4″ (oval) | 3.5″ (Round) | 1.5″ × 3″ (oval) |
| Tweeter | 20mm | 20mm | 20mm |
| Bluetooth Receiver | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Transmitter | Yes | Yes | – |
| Grill | Heathered Fabric | Heathered Fabric | Perforated Metal |
| Selectable 100Hz High-Pass Filter | Yes | Yes | – |
| Frequency Range | 65Hz–20kHz | 48Hz – 20kH | 60Hz–20kHz |
| Ceramic Cartridge EQ | – | – | Yes |
| Dimension (WxHxD) | 18” x 13.5 x 3.25” | 18” x 13.5 x 4.25” | 18” x 13.5 x 3.25” |
| In The Box | SpinBase Turntable Speaker System Power Adapter (US Plug, 110v-220v) RCA Cable with Ground Quick Start Guide | SpinBase Turntable Speaker System Power Adapter (US Plug, 110v-220v) RCA Cable with Ground Quick Start Guide | SpinBase Turntable Speaker System Power Adapter (US Plug, 110v-220v) RCA Cable with Ground Quick Start Guide |
The Bottom Line
Andover has taken the product that established its customer base and refined it with a number of changes that make a lot of sense; the ability to transmit music using Bluetooth to headphones increases its appeal to those who may wish to listen to their favorite recordings (vinyl or digital) and not disturb other people in the room.
The expansion of its connectivity options makes it easier to add a subwoofer, network player, CD player, and even other legacy components.
Our experience so far with their products has been positive and you might be surprised just how capable the SpinBase 2 is as a loudspeaker in a smaller space such as a bedroom, home office, or even dorm room.
Price & Availability
The Andover SpinBase 2 is priced $349 and is available for pre-order (expected delivery in November) in black or white finish. Buy directly at www.andoveraudio.com and authorized dealers.
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